The Ultimate Guide to Gambling in Australia: 2025 Edition

Australia has long held a reputation as one of the world’s most enthusiastic gambling nations. From the ubiquitous “pokies” in local pubs to the high-stakes glitz of metropolitan casinos and the rapid rise of mobile sports betting, the landscape is both culturally ingrained and economically massive.

As we move through 2025, the industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by tighter regulations, a massive shift toward digital platforms, and a renewed focus on consumer protection. This guide explores everything you need to know about the current state of gambling in Australia.

1. The Australian Gambling Landscape by the Numbers

To understand gambling in Australia, you first have to understand its scale. Australia consistently ranks at the top of global leaderboards for gambling expenditure per adult.

• Total Annual Losses: Australians lose approximately AU$31.5 billion annually across all forms of gambling.
• Participation Rates: Roughly 60% of Australian adults gamble at least once a year.
• The Rise of Online: For the first time, online gambling participation has begun to rival traditional venue-based play. In 2025, over 56% of active gamblers conducted the majority of their betting via apps or websites.
• The “Pokies” Capital: Australia is home to approximately 200,000 Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs)—representing about 75% of the world’s pub and club machines outside of casinos.

2. Most Popular Ways to Bet

While the variety of games is vast, Australian preferences tend to cluster around a few key activities.

Electronic Gaming Machines (Pokies)

Known affectionately (or notoriously) as “pokies,” these machines are the backbone of the Australian gambling industry. Unlike many other countries where slots are restricted to casinos, Australian pokies are found in thousands of local RSL clubs, hotels, and pubs, particularly in New South Wales and Queensland.

Sports and Race Wagering

Betting on the “ponies” (horse racing) and greyhounds is a deep-seated tradition, especially around the Spring Racing Carnival. However, sports betting—particularly on the AFL, NRL, and NBA—is the fastest-growing sector among younger demographics (aged 18–34).

Lotteries and Scratchies

Lotteries remain the most “socially acceptable” and widely practiced form of gambling, with over 40% of the population participating. They are often viewed as a low-stakes “dream” rather than a risky habit.

Casino Table Games

Major cities like Sydney (The Star), Melbourne (Crown), and Perth (Crown Perth) host world-class casinos. While the “VIP” segment has seen fluctuations due to regulatory inquiries, local interest in Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat remains steady.

3. Understanding the Legal Framework

The legalities of gambling in Australia are unique because they are split between Federal and State/Territory governments.

State vs. Federal Control

• States & Territories: They regulate land-based venues (casinos, pubs, clubs) and lotteries. Each has its own commission, such as Liquor & Gaming NSW or the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).
• Federal Government: The Commonwealth handles interactive (online) gambling through the Interactive Gambling Act 2001 (IGA).

What is Legal Online?

It is a common misconception that all online gambling is legal. Under the IGA:

• Legal: Online sports betting, horse racing, and regulated lotteries.
• Illegal to Provide: Online casinos (slots/pokies), online poker, and “in-play” sports betting (betting on a live match via an app after it has started).

Important Note: While it is illegal for an operator to offer online casino games to Australians, the law does not penalize the individual player. However, using unlicensed offshore sites carries high risks regarding data security and the payout of winnings.

4. Major Regulatory Shifts in 2024–2025

The “wild west” era of gambling advertising and easy credit is coming to an end. Several landmark changes have been implemented recently:

• The Credit Card Ban: As of June 2024, Australians can no longer use credit cards or digital currencies (like Bitcoin) for online wagering. Bets must now be placed using “cleared funds” (debit cards or bank transfers) to prevent players from gambling with borrowed money.
• BetStop™ – The National Self-Exclusion Register: This allows any Australian to ban themselves from every single licensed online wagering provider in the country with one simple click.
• Mandatory Carded Play: In states like New South Wales and Victoria, there is a push toward “carded play” for pokies, requiring players to link their identity and set loss limits before they can spin.
• The Advertising Crackdown: There is significant political momentum toward a total or phased-in ban on gambling advertisements on TV and radio, particularly during sports broadcasts, to protect children from “gambling normalization.”

5. Regional Differences: Where You Are Matters

Because states set their own rules, your experience will differ depending on your location:

6. Responsible Gambling and Support

With the highest losses in the world comes a significant responsibility for harm prevention. In Australia, “Responsible Gambling” is more than just a tagline; it is a legal requirement for operators.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the following resources are free, confidential, and available 24/7:

• National Gambling Helpline: 1800 858 858
• Gambling Help Online: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
• BetStop: www.betstop.gov.au

Conclusion

Gambling in Australia is a complex mix of sporting passion, local community culture, and high-tech digital evolution. While it offers entertainment for millions, the landscape is shifting toward a “safety-first” model. Whether you are a casual punter placing a bet on the Melbourne Cup or a digital native using the latest apps, staying informed about the laws and your own limits is the most important part of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Gambling in Australia?

Gambling in Australia refers to activities where individuals wager money or valuables on uncertain outcomes, including casino games, lotteries, sports betting, and online gambling. Australia has one of the highest gambling rates per capita in the world.

2. Is Online Gambling Legal in Australia?

Yes, online gambling is legal in Australia, but it is regulated. The Interactive Gambling Act 2001 restricts certain online gambling services and prohibits unlicensed operators from offering real-money online games to Australian residents.

3. What Are the Popular Forms of Gambling in Australia?

The most popular forms include:

• Lottery and scratch tickets

• Sports betting (horse racing, AFL, cricket, etc.)

• Casino games (pokies, blackjack, roulette)

• Online betting platforms

4. Are There Age Restrictions for Gambling in Australia?

Yes, the legal gambling age varies by state but is generally 18 years or older. It is illegal for minors to participate in any form of gambling, including online platforms.

5. How Is Gambling Regulated in Australia?

Gambling is regulated by both federal and state authorities. Each state has a Gambling Commission or equivalent body overseeing casinos, sports betting, and online gambling to ensure compliance with legal standards.

6. Can Tourists Gamble in Australia?

Yes, tourists aged 18 and above can legally gamble in casinos and licensed venues. Online gambling is restricted to residents, so tourists may only use in-person services.

7. What Are Responsible Gambling Practices?

Responsible gambling involves:

• Setting strict limits on spending and time

• Avoiding chasing losses

• Seeking support if gambling becomes problematic

Several Australian organizations provide help, such as Gambling Help Online and local counseling services.

8. Are Gambling Winnings Taxed in Australia?

No, gambling winnings are generally not taxed in Australia for casual gamblers. Professional gamblers may be subject to tax, depending on income classification.

9. How Can I Identify Safe Online Gambling Sites?

Safe sites are licensed by Australian regulatory authorities or internationally recognized regulators. Key signs of safety include:

• Secure payment options

• Verified licensing information

• Clear terms and conditions

10. What Support Is Available for Gambling Addiction?

Australia offers numerous support services, including:

• Gambling Help Online

• State-based counseling services

• Helplines such as 1800 858 858
  These resources provide confidential support and treatment programs.